Glossary

Cosmetic Dentistry Glossary

A patient-friendly guide to cosmetic dentistry vocabulary — covering common procedures, aesthetic concerns, and the materials and techniques used to enhance your smile.

Bonding

Repairing chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth using a tooth-colored resin material.

Dental Veneers

Thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front of teeth to improve their appearance.

Gum Contouring

Reshaping the gum line to create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile.

Inlays/Onlays

Custom-made fillings that are used to repair larger cavities or those that involve the cusps (points) of a tooth.

Teeth Whitening

A procedure to lighten the color of teeth using bleaching agents.

Crowding

When there is not enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to align properly.

Diastema

A gap or space between teeth.

Discoloration

Staining or discoloration of teeth caused by food, drinks, smoking, medications, or aging.

Misshapen Teeth

Teeth that are abnormally shaped or sized.

Stained Teeth

Teeth that have become discolored due to external factors like food, drinks, or smoking.

Composite Resin

A tooth-colored material used for fillings, veneers, and bonding.

Cosmetic Dentist

A dentist who specializes in improving the appearance of teeth and smiles.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance of your teeth, gums and/or bite.

Enamel

The hard, outer layer of the tooth.

Esthetics

The study of beauty and the principles of art and design.

Full Mouth Reconstruction

A comprehensive treatment plan to restore the function and aesthetics of the entire mouth.

Hollywood Smile

A term used to describe a set of teeth that are considered to be perfect or ideal in appearance.

Smile Design

The process of planning and creating an aesthetically pleasing smile.

Smile Makeover

A combination of cosmetic dental procedures used to enhance the appearance of a smile.